Sep 07 Monday
KPAC presents THE ODYSSEY, the latest film from acclaimed auteur Christopher Nolan. After the Trojan War, Odysseus faces a dangerous voyage back to Ithaca, meeting creatures like the Cyclops Polyphemus, Sirens, and Calypso along the way. Reinvigorating an ancient adventure with majestic sweep and sterling work by its colossal ensemble, Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey imbues myth with primal human feeling. See it on our brand new 4K projector!
Sep 09 Wednesday
Belt out the lyrics to this Disney classic in a special sing-along event! In this dazzling Disney film, a lion cub looks forward to following in his father's footsteps and becoming king of the pride lands one day. Unfortunately, his happy childhood turns tragic when his uncle murders his father and drives him into exile.
The Lion King stars Matthew Broderick, Jeremy Irons, James Earl Jones, Nathan Lane, Moira Kelly and was directed by Rob Minkoff.
Field Hall opens at 5PM; food and drink available for purchase through the Sunset Bar & Lounge.
The fourth annual Kenworthy Silent Film Festival continues with three all-time classic short films written and directed by Charlie Chaplin in the years between 1917-22: “Pay Day,” “The Immigrant,” and “Easy Street” with new scores for saxophone quartet composed by young professionals from WSU and UI Lionel Hampton School of Music. KPAC is proud to offer commissions to advanced students and recent graduates through an open application with competitive review. This year’s distinguished composers include Kade Rowland, Tristan Donaldson, and Moe Conner. This special partnership is made possible by university liaisons, Max Wolpert and Christian Kim.
The two-reel Chaplin shorts offer a very funny glimpse of a universally recognized and beloved artist as he refined his Tramp persona with precision spills and a surprisingly moral vision. These films, much like feature masterworks that came not long after, address pressing issues–labor exploitation, domestic strife, and social integration–with comic resilience that speaks to Chaplin’s unshakable optimism, a sentiment that feels honest and earned. These selections are among Chaplin’s most celebrated early films; don’t miss this opportunity to see them with the laughter of others in an old vaudeville auditorium.
Purchase your Festival Pass to get access to all the screenings!
Sep 11 Friday
KPAC and U of I Black Studies present MICHAEL. The early life of musician Michael Jackson, from the discovery of his talent as the lead of the Jackson Five to the artist whose creative ambition fueled a pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world. Boosted by stellar performances, most notably Jaafar Jackson’s breakout turn, Michael brings the story of the King of Pop to the big screen! Sponsored by U of I Black Studies. Free for U of I Students.
Sep 12 Saturday
KPAC presents TONY. A 19-year-old Anthony Bourdain travels to Provincetown and stumbles into the chaotic world of a restaurant kitchen, setting off a summer that will shape the course of his life. Exploring how the iconic Anthony Bourdain came to be with a scrappy coming-of-age story that's equal parts sweet and tart, Tony is a splendid tribute to mentorship, complete with a standout performances by Antonio Banderas and Dominic Sessa.
KPAC presents Paul Thomas Anderson’s offbeat romantic comedy, PUNCH-DRUNK LOVE. An entrepreneur with social anxiety falls victim to a blackmailing scheme that jeopardizes his chance at true love. Odd, touching, and unique, Punch-Drunk Love is also delightfully funny, utilizing Adam Sandler's comic persona to explore the life of a lonely guy who finds love. Sponsored by Kyle Howerton.
Sep 13 Sunday
KPAC and Moscow Contemporary present ART FOR EVERYBODY as part of Frames of Reference, a series dedicated to showcasing art in film and celebrating artists across all mediums. Thomas Kinkade’s landscapes made him the most collected and despised painter ever. After his shocking death, his family discovers a vault of unseen paintings that reveal a complex artist whose life and work embody our divided America. An illuminating and deeply revealing portrait that uncovers the complicated man behind the “Painter of Light,” Art for Everybody finds darkness beneath the familiar glow. Proceeds from the screening will support both nonprofit organizations.
KPAC presents the 10th Anniversary screening of LA LA LAND. When Sebastian, a pianist, and Mia, an actress, follow their passion and achieve success in their respective fields, they find themselves torn between their love for each other and their careers. La La Land breathes new life into a bygone genre with thrillingly assured direction, powerful performances, and an irresistible excess of heart.
